Have a Question?
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FAQs

For quick answers in regard to common problems or concerns such as lost cards, confirming your membership expiration date, please refer to our frequently asked questions or reach out to our staff during normal operating hours at Fort Ancient.

Our friendly membership staff can also be reached Monday-Friday by emailing
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or calling 937.275.7431, ext. 152.

Common Questions

A. Guided tours are available to groups who schedule in advance. Drop in visitors can utilize the self-guided tour, exploring the Museum and adjacent prehistoric garden, and viewing the earthworks from the comfort of the paved drive or on established trails. Fort Ancient staff and volunteers will also be happy to answer any questions that you may have. If you would like information about Guided Tours for School Groups and Adult Group tours click here.

Q. Are there any rules about exploring the grounds at Fort Ancient?

A. When hiking, it is imperative that visitors remain on established paths at all times. In addition to maintaining a "Leave No Trace" ethic for the facility, the prehistoric earthworks can be fragile and Fort Ancient is an active archaeological site.

Q. Do I have to pay admission to visit The Museum Store at Fort Ancient?

A. No. Feel free to browse and shop at The Museum Store as long as you like without paying an admission fee.

Q. Will I have to pay for parking at Fort Ancient?

A. Visitors who choose to tour the grounds only, with no access to the Museum or indoor facilities, may choose to pay $8.00/carload to park and have access to the site. On-site parking is included with full access Museum admission, and free for members.

Q. Is Fort Ancient Accessible?

A. In compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, the Museum at Fort Ancient is fully accessible, and the adjacent prehistoric garden pathways have a level gravel walkway. The grounds at Fort Ancient include three-quarters of a mile of paved drive, from which much of the site can be viewed. However, the North Overlook and outdoor facilities are not handicapped accessible. Service animals are also welcome to accompany you, if needed. Three Handicapped Parking spaces are located close to the entrance, providing easy access to the facility.

Q. Do you accept reciprocal memberships from other museums for General Admission to Fort Ancient?

A. Yes. The Dayton Society of Natural History is a member of both the Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Our policy for reciprocal admissions for families who have memberships to other museums or zoos accredited by either ASTC or AZA is as follows: Two adults living in same household and all their children or grandchildren 18 years and younger. For DSNH membership levels starting at $135.00, additional reciprocity benefits apply through the Association of Children’s Museums (ACM) Reciprocal Program.

Q. Is photography allowed at Fort Ancient?

A. Yes. We encourage visitors to take photographs both in the Museum and throughout the grounds, and even video footage of their visit to Fort Ancient as a way to remember the experience. If you are taking photographs for publications we ask that we be allowed to review and approve each photograph prior to publication. During certain events, however, the opportunities for photography and video footage may be limited. At events such as these please inquire as to the appropriateness of taking photography or video footage.

Q. Can my spouse or partner bring my kids to Fort Ancient?

A. All of our membership cards are imprinted with the names of up to two adults who are living in the same household. We encourage all parents and other adults raising children to share the experience. If your spouse or partner's name is not listed on your card, please let us know so that we can add them as an additional "Add-On" or include them as one of the named adults on your Membership card when filling out your Membership information, provided you are in the same household.

Q. Can I bring a pet to Fort Ancient?

A. Pets are allowed on the grounds at Fort Ancient, but must be on a leash and properly tended to. Only service animals with a service vest are permitted in the museum.

Q. Will I be photographed while visiting Fort Ancient?

A. Anything is possible! At Fort Ancient, we commonly take photographs or shoot video footage to document events, and to use for promotional purposes. If you prefer not to be photographed while visiting Fort Ancient, please inquire at the admission counter if any documentation is occurring during your visit.

Q. How can I volunteer at Fort Ancient?

A. Fort Ancient has many great volunteer opportunities, no experience required, just the willingness to learn and share with the public. If you are interested in volunteer opportunities at Fort Ancient click here for more information.

Q. Does my membership include admission to special events?

A. Your Membership to the Dayton Society of Natural History includes unlimited general admission to Fort Ancient, SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, and the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery. Some special events carry an additional fee. Discounted admissions are provided to members for some special events, guided tours, classes, summer lore, and other activities.